Darebin welcomes five year leases for Preston Market traders

Published on 15 November 2023

Darebin is excited to hear the Preston Market traders will have their leases extended for five years from January next year.

Traders yesterday received written confirmation from market owners that their leases will be extended, providing much needed security.

Our community and the traders who make the market great can breathe a collective sigh of relief knowing it will remain while plans for the precinct are developed.

This news comes after more than five years of advocacy that we’re proud to have been a part of alongside our passionate community.

This advocacy included working alongside community groups to gather over 30,000 petition signatures and writing on multiple occasions to The Minister for Planning, calling for the protection of the Preston Market's future.

In April this year, following advocacy from Council and the community, the Minister for Planning released a report of recommendations on the future of the Preston Market Precinct.

Darebin Mayor Cr Julie Williams said yesterday’s news is a great and positive step in the right direction.

"This latest announcement from market owners brings long awaited reassurance and positive news for the traders and the broader community. We would like to thank the market owners for taking this positive step and we look forward to working with them and the State Government to ensure the future of Preston Market," Mayor Williams said.

"Congratulations to everyone who campaigned, wrote letters, or even joined us on the steps of Parliament earlier this year. Well done, Darebin, this is a real reason to celebrate!"